Graciosa Marine Reserve Catamaran Day Trip with Transfers

Exploring La Graciosa with the Marine Reserve Catamaran Day Trip

If you’re looking for a way to escape the more crowded spots in Lanzarote and get a taste of the tranquil, less developed side of the Canary Islands, this Graciosa Marine Reserve Catamaran Day Trip might just be worth considering. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and descriptions give us a good sense of what to expect — and it seems like a solid choice for those craving a mix of relaxing scenery, light adventure, and some good local food.

What really stands out about this trip are the stunning views of La Graciosa and the ease of combining a ferry ride with a calm, enjoyable catamaran sail. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy being on the water, with the added bonus of a hearty meal onboard. On the flip side, one common critique is that the time spent on La Graciosa is a bit limited, which might leave some travelers wanting more time exploring this quiet island.

This tour tends to suit travelers who appreciate comfortable, straightforward day trips that offer scenic views and good food without too much hassle. If you’re after a laid-back, well-organized experience that captures the relaxed vibe of the Canary Islands, this could be a good fit. But if you’re looking for a more in-depth exploration or want ample time on the island itself, you might find this tour somewhat brief.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation includes both a ferry and a catamaran, making the journey smooth and scenic.
• Meal on board features a freshly prepared paella, alongside a welcome mojito and drinks, adding a satisfying culinary touch.
• Limited time on La Graciosa might feel rushed for some, based on traveler feedback.
• Great for water lovers who enjoy being on boats and soaking in views of the ocean and islands.
• Optional guided or free time in Caleta de Sebo allows for some exploration at your own pace.
• Booking in advance is recommended, with most travelers securing their spot about a month ahead, indicating popularity.

The Experience in Detail

The day begins with a pickup arrangement (offered by the tour provider) and a departure from Puerto de Órzola at around 11:00 am. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transport options, making it easy to get there without a fuss. Once onboard, you’ll enjoy a scenic ferry ride across the water from Órzola to La Graciosa, which itself is a highlight, offering panoramic views and a taste of island life.

The ferry takes you directly to Caleta de Sebo, La Graciosa’s main town and the island’s hub. Here, you might choose to explore on your own or join a guide (if available) to learn about this quiet, unspoiled part of the Canary Islands. The reviews suggest that some travelers find this part a bit rushed, with only limited time to soak in the local charm, so plan accordingly if you want to linger.

From Caleta de Sebo, the tour continues on a comfortable catamaran to Playa Francesa. This part of the trip is often praised for its relaxed vibe, with many noting that the views are especially impressive — the kind of scenery that makes you want to linger. During the sail, you’ll be offered a welcome mojito and tortilla, which sets a friendly, festive tone. Once at Playa Francesa, you can take a swim, relax on the sand, or simply enjoy the scenery before heading back.

The highlight for many seems to be the onboard freshly made paella, served during the trip. It’s a simple but satisfying meal, especially after some water-based exploration. The friendly crew contributes to the laid-back, enjoyable atmosphere, and many reviews mention the good mood of the staff as a real plus.

The return journey is smooth, with the tour ending back at the initial meeting point in Órzola. The entire experience lasts around six hours, making it a perfect day-trip option for those with a bit of free time and a love for boat trips and scenic islands.

What Travelers Are Saying

While most reviews are positive, highlighting the stunning views and good food, there are some points worth noting. For instance, David from one review mentions that the trip “all good except not enough time given to spend on La Graciosa,” which is something to consider if you’re eager to explore the island more extensively.

Another traveler, Maryann, pointed out some logistical issues with pickup details changing unexpectedly, which underscores the importance of clear communication and staying informed before your trip. However, she also admits she didn’t get to verify the info, and the overall experience might still be enjoyable if everything runs smoothly.

On the positive side, Audrey from France loved her day, calling it “an excellent day on the catamaran” with good food, a cheerful crew, and a location that she described as “simply magical.” That kind of enthusiasm suggests this tour has the capacity to deliver memorable moments, especially in good weather and with the right expectations.

For those who have tried it, the experience appears to be quite scenic — the views of La Graciosa, the ocean, and the surrounding islands seem to be the star of the show. Many appreciate the relaxed sailing and the onboard amenities like unlimited drinks and tasty food.

The Practical Side: Details You Should Know

The price of around $85 per person is fairly reasonable considering what’s included: ferry, catamaran sail, guided or leisure exploration, and a generous meal. It’s a straightforward value for those wanting a full day on the water without the hassle of organizing everything independently.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most being able to participate. The group size is capped at 100, so it doesn’t feel overly crowded, but it’s large enough to keep the atmosphere lively.

While the tour is weather-dependent, there’s a clear policy for cancellations due to poor weather, with options for rescheduling or a full refund. Be sure to bring sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and a camera to capture those gorgeous views.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic day with some great ocean views, good food, and a chance to see La Graciosa from the water. It’s perfect for water enthusiasts, couples, or groups who want a hassle-free way to enjoy this part of Lanzarote without dedicating multiple days or planning logistics on your own.

If your main goal is to explore La Graciosa more thoroughly or spend a lot of time on land, this tour might feel a bit rushed. Similarly, if you’re sensitive to changes in plans or logistics, be aware that pickup details have caused some confusion for past travelers.

FAQs

• What time does the tour start?
  It begins at approximately 11:00 am from Muelle De Orzola.

• Is transportation included?
  Yes, transfers are offered as part of the package.

• How long is the tour?
  It lasts around six hours, including ferry, sailing, and free time.

• Can I bring my own food or drinks?
  The tour provides onboard drinks and a meal, so bringing extra might not be necessary.

• How many people typically join?
  There is a maximum of 100 travelers, so it’s a lively but not overcrowded experience.

• Is there a guide on the island?
  You can explore independently or with a guide if available, but specific details aren’t provided.

• What should I bring?
  Sunscreen, comfortable clothes, camera, and possibly a towel for swimming.

• Is it suitable for children?
  Most travelers can participate, but consider the boat conditions and overall trip length.

• What happens if the weather is bad?
  The tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds offered if canceled due to weather.

• How is the food onboard?
  The onboard paella is freshly prepared and well-liked by participants, along with unlimited drinks.

To sum it up, if you’re after a relaxed, scenic day that mixes boat travel with some tasty food and the chance to see La Graciosa’s quiet beauty, this tour offers a convenient and enjoyable way to do it. While it may not leave ample time for anchoring or exploring the island in depth, the views, the vibe, and the onboard amenities make it a solid choice for many travelers. Just keep in mind the limited time on La Graciosa itself — if that’s your main goal, you might want to plan extra time to explore separately. This trip provides a good balance of comfort, scenery, and good company, making it a memorable part of any Lanzarote holiday.